The Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, the Most Rev. Dr. Stephen Samuel Kaziimba Mugalu, has urged Members of the 12th Parliament to uphold integrity, accountability and unity in their service to the country.

He reminded the legislators that their election to Parliament carries greater purpose beyond personal advancement, and urged them to continually reflect on why their constituents chose them as representatives.

“Why are we still on this planet Earth? We are here to ensure that we may promote God’s Kingdom. Political offices should not be an avenue for personal enrichment, but for the benefit of citizens. We are here to build our country,” he said.

The Archbishop made the call while preaching at the inaugural welcome Service for MPs held at Parliament on Thursday, 13 August 2026, under the theme, “Called to Serve”.

Kaziimba encouraged legislators to use their positions to speak for vulnerable members of society, particularly the poor, widows and those without hope, noting that public office requires integrity, accountability and responsible stewardship.

“We are the voice for the voiceless, which is a great calling. We are here to make laws that can help the displaced, misplaced, and all those people who have no hope at all. As MPs, your conduct in and outside Parliament should reflect the honor attached to your offices,” the Archbishop said.

He also challenged MPs to remain connected to their constituencies despite the demanding nature of parliamentary work, picking on one of four key roles of legislators which is representation.

“Do not forget your people back home. You must strike a balance between your parliamentary responsibilities and your obligations to the people who elected you. You should not forget your families either, you have responsibilities at home and all the pressures over here are just temporary,” Kaziimba warned.

On governance, the Archbishop encouraged lawmakers to always seek divine guidance in their deliberations and ensure that laws and decisions contribute to justice and the wellbeing of Ugandans.

“Please discuss matters which will save Uganda, which will bring justice, which will ensure God is in charge of everything. Let us look for things that will build our country and make us forget our differences,” he said.

During his preaching, the Archbishop quoted Proverbs 3:5, 31:8 – 9 and Micah 6:8, which focus putting God first in all tasks, living a life of integrity and honor, as well as promoting justice, love and mercy for all people.

The Deputy Speaker, Thomas Tayebwa, appreciated the Archbishop for leading the prayers at Parliament, noting that Parliament is a prayerful institution that has established prayer spaces for Muslims, Catholics and Anglicans.

“We are a community of believers and we believe that we can only succeed if we dedicate this institution into the hands of the Lord. That is the only way we will progress. And it is not just about just prayer, but also about putting what we pray for into action,” Tayebwa said.

He asked the Archbishop to keep Parliament in his prayers, and urged MPs to pray for unity to work as a team despite their differing party affiliations.